American Adults Warned Over Aspirin Use Despite Risks

Aspirin may help our bodies defend themselves against colorectal cancer by activating our immune system, new research suggests.

Despite evolving guidelines and new evidence, a significant number of older adults in the United States continue to use aspirin for the primary prevention of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Recent studies and surveys indicate that this widespread use persists even though the benefits of aspirin for primary prevention are increasingly questioned.

Aspirin has been a cornerstone of heart attack and stroke prevention for decades. However, a study published in the American Journal of Preventive Cardiology highlights that only a modest portion of the U.S. population qualifies for aspirin use under the 2022 U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) guidelines.

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According to the study, "7.2 million adults aged 40-59 years qualify for primary prevention aspirin, representing about 10 [percent] of this age group." However, due to increased bleeding risks, approximately 30 percent of these individuals would be excluded, leaving about 5 million adults eligible.

The guidelines for aspirin use have changed significantly. In 2019, the American College of Cardiology and the American Heart Association updated their recommendations, advising that aspirin should be used infrequently for primary prevention due to a lack of net benefit. These guidelines were influenced by clinical trials showing that the risk of bleeding often outweighs the benefits of aspirin in preventing first-time cardiovascular events.

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Despite the updated guidelines, many older adults continue to take aspirin. A recent poll by the University of Michigan's National Poll on Healthy Aging revealed that about one in four adults aged 50 to 80 take aspirin at least three times a week. Interestingly, nearly 60 percent of these individuals do not have a history of heart disease, suggesting that many are using aspirin without a clear medical indication.

The main concern with continued aspirin use is the increased risk of bleeding, particularly in the gastrointestinal tract and brain. The USPSTF now recommends against starting aspirin for primary prevention in adults aged 60 or older, citing that the risks outweigh the benefits. This recommendation is based on evidence showing that while aspirin can reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes, it significantly increases the risk of bleeding.

In contrast, aspirin use for secondary prevention—preventing further heart attacks or strokes in individuals who have already experienced such events—remains a standard recommendation.

The high prevalence of aspirin use among older adults highlights the need for better communication and education about the updated guidelines. As Dr. Geoffrey Barnes from Michigan Medicine stated, "As guidelines change, it's important for everyone over 40 to talk with their healthcare provider about their individual cardiovascular risk."

This tailored approach ensures that aspirin is used appropriately, minimizing unnecessary risks while maximizing potential benefits.

Ultimately, while aspirin remains a valuable tool in specific contexts, its role in primary prevention should be carefully considered in light of current evidence and guidelines.

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